Lakers insider says all signs point toward $101M superstar re-signing to play with Luka Doncic originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Lakers are still evaluating what the next move will be for LeBron James after this season. However, the organization has already met his stated desire of remaining on a contending team this year.

“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Rich Paul told ESPN. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.”

James will have decisions to make regarding retirement or free agency following this playoff run. One factor in his thinking could be the presence of Bronny James.

“The path of least resistance involves both James as members of the Lakers next season. That would, of course, involve a lot of sacrifice on LeBron's part. The aging forward would almost certainly need to take a pay cut and perhaps even lessen his role with the team more than what he already has. That could be the trade-off for getting to run the bench unit minutes with Bronny in 2026-27. It was something LeBron thoroughly enjoyed during the recent 137-130 win over the Indiana Pacers. If Bronny continues on the upward trend everyone is noticing over his first two years with the Lakers, that could be a regular occurrence for the pair in 2026-27. It gives LeBron yet another thing to mull over before making his (final) decision in the summer,” Lake Show Life’s Syvatoslav Rovenchuk wrote.

However, there is growing belief that James returning to Los Angeles for another season is becoming increasingly likely.

“All signs are leading LeBron back to Los Angeles. Sure, he doesn't have the leverage he once had, but he doesn't need to sign a max deal. All of these factors should lead LeBron to sign a team-friendly contract to continue his tenure with the Lakers for at least one more season,” Lake Show Life’s Jason Reed wrote.

James is expected to be one of the defining storylines of the NBA offseason. He is coming off a $101 million contract with Los Angeles and is assumed to return on a reduced deal.

The Lakers will continue to rely heavily on him during the playoffs, especially with Luka Doncic and Austin Reavessidelined. James has spent the latter stages of his career in Los Angeles, and all signs point to him finishing his career as a Laker.

More NBA news:

1. Lakers predicted to sign $82.5M defensive menace, Finals Champion to build alongside Luka Doncic

2. Lakers' $16M veteran could be saving grace amid faltering season without Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves

3. Lakers reportedly relying on $51M inconsistent starter for playoff success alongside LeBron James

4. Lakers predicted to part ways with $18M former first-rounder after underwhelming season

5. Lakers make $18M roster move after devastating Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves injury announcements

6. Lakers' LeBron James flair for the dramatic will prolong retirement decision beyond postseason

7. Lakers reportedly could lose $101M legend over salary roadblock, Luka Doncic reality check

8. Lakers hold key LeBron James advantage that could keep him in LA, quieting retirement rumors